# Poland Integrates Counter-Drone Weapons

Poland’s air-defense modernization remains several years from completion, leaving the Polish Air Force at sustained high readiness and relying on fighter aircraft to counter drones. Near-term procurement and integration needs include lower-cost counter-UAS weapons at scale, APKWS integration and compatible fuses for F-16s, and weapons integration for F/A-50GF aircraft; the latter is estimated to take about two years to reach operational readiness for a drone-hunting role.

- Poland’s reliance on fighter aircraft creates an opportunity for suppliers of affordable counter-UAS weapons and for contractors able to integrate weapons with existing aircraft.
- APKWS integration is constrained by the availability and certification of compatible fuses, making fuse supply and certification capability material considerations for prospective suppliers.
- The F/A-50GF counter-drone capability is not expected to be fully operational for about two years; contractors should account for that integration timeline in planning and delivery proposals.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Published:** October 14, 2026

### Government Entities
- Polish Air Force
- Polish Armed Forces

### Sources
- [How Poland’s air force is responding to Russian drones in the skies - Breaking Defense](https://breakingdefense.com/2026/10/how-polands-air-force-is-responding-to-russian-drones-in-the-skies) - Breaking Defense